Eat yourself happier in winter

It's also important to eat well during the winter. Winter blues can make you crave sugary foods and carbohydrates such as chocolate, pasta and bread, but don't forget to include plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables in your diet.

Get active to beat SAD

Dr Andrew McCulloch is former chief executive of the Mental Health Foundation, which produced a report on the mental health benefits of exercise.

He says: "There's convincing evidence that 30 minutes of vigorous exercise 3 times a week is effective against depression, and anecdotal evidence that lighter exercise will have a beneficial effect, too.

"If you have a tendency towards SAD, outdoor exercise will have a double benefit, because you'll gain some daylight."

Activity is believed to change the level of the mood-regulating chemical serotonin in the brain.

It can also help by providing a pleasant change of scene, and helping you meet new people.

If you're suffering from SAD, your GP might be able to refer you to an exercise scheme. But if winter blues is your problem, why not get out and exercise independently?

The charity Mind says research has shown that an hour-long walk in the middle of the day is an effective way to beat the winter blues.

Ramblers offers a Festival of Winter Walks each year, with routes ranging from 3 to 10 miles. They're a great way to enjoy some moderate daylight activity.